The default condition of lost humanity is to always revert to some form of self-help. It’s the Gospel of moralism that says man is not totally depraved, and there is with humanity the ability for self-improvement. It is this self-improvement that not only will bring personal happiness but will ultimately be approved by God.
But our text here in Romans 6:6-7 runs counter to that kind of thinking. Let me read it once again…
Romans 6:6-7 (ESV) 6 We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. 7 For one who has died has been set free from sin.